Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, meat holds a significant place within the dietary practices and religious observances of the Israelites and early Christians. The consumption of meat is addressed in various passages throughout the Bible, reflecting both cultural practices and divine commandments.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, the consumption of meat is closely tied to the sacrificial system and dietary laws given to the Israelites. The Law of Moses, as detailed in Leviticus and Deuteronomy, outlines specific guidelines for which animals may be consumed. Leviticus 11 and Deuteronomy 14 provide a list of clean and unclean animals, with clean animals being permissible for consumption. For example, animals that chew the cud and have a split hoof, such as cattle, sheep, and goats, are considered clean (Leviticus 11:3). The sacrificial system also played a crucial role in the consumption of meat. Certain sacrifices, such as the peace offerings, allowed the offerer and their family to partake in the meat of the sacrifice (Leviticus 7:15-16). This practice not only provided sustenance but also reinforced the communal and covenantal relationship between God and His people. New Testament Context In the New Testament, the dietary laws of the Old Testament are revisited in light of the new covenant established through Jesus Christ. The early church grappled with the question of whether Gentile converts were required to adhere to Jewish dietary laws. This issue is addressed in Acts 15, where the Jerusalem Council determined that Gentile believers should abstain from food sacrificed to idols, from blood, and from the meat of strangled animals (Acts 15:29). The Apostle Paul further elaborates on the topic of meat consumption in his epistles. In 1 Corinthians 8 and Romans 14, Paul discusses the issue of eating meat offered to idols. He emphasizes the importance of conscience and the principle of love, advising believers to avoid causing others to stumble in their faith by their dietary choices (1 Corinthians 8:9-13). Symbolic and Spiritual Significance Meat also carries symbolic and spiritual significance in the Bible. In the Old Testament, the Passover lamb is a central element of the Passover feast, symbolizing God's deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt (Exodus 12:3-11). This foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the "Lamb of God," who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). In the New Testament, Jesus uses the metaphor of meat to convey spiritual truths. In John 6:55, Jesus declares, "For My flesh is real food, and My blood is real drink." This statement, while controversial to His audience, underscores the necessity of partaking in the life and sacrifice of Christ for spiritual sustenance and eternal life. Cultural and Historical Considerations The cultural and historical context of meat consumption in biblical times reflects the agrarian society of ancient Israel and the surrounding regions. Livestock such as sheep, goats, and cattle were integral to the economy and daily life, providing not only food but also clothing, labor, and sacrificial offerings. The preparation and consumption of meat were often communal activities, with feasts and celebrations marking significant religious and social events. The sharing of meat in these contexts reinforced community bonds and the shared identity of the people of God. In summary, the articles of meat in the Bible encompass a range of dietary, sacrificial, and symbolic elements that reflect the covenantal relationship between God and His people, the transition from the old covenant to the new, and the spiritual truths embodied in the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. Nave's Topical Index 2 Samuel 6:19And he dealt among all the people, even among the whole multitude of Israel, as well to the women as men, to every one a cake of bread, and a good piece of flesh, and a flagon of wine. So all the people departed every one to his house. Nave's Topical Index Proverbs 9:2 Greek 1033. broma -- food ... From the base of bibrosko; food (literally or figuratively), especially (ceremonially) articles allowed or forbidden by the Jewish law -- meat, victuals. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1033.htm - 6k Library Of Abstinence (Two Articles) Whether it is Fitting that those who Fast Should be Bidden to ... Whether Sobriety is by Itself a Special virtue? Articles vii and viii: of the Church. The Morning-Meal in the Pharisee's House - Meals and Feasts among ... Whether Abstinence is a virtue? Some of God's Laws Defended as Good, which the Marcionites ... Whether Abstinence is a Special virtue? Of the Intestines in Man, and their Use. Whether it is Requisite for Fasting that one Eat but Once? Resources What does the Bible say about eating junk food? | GotQuestions.orgIs it allowable for a Christian to eat halal food? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about eating food/meat that has been sacrificed to idols? | GotQuestions.org Food: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Commissary for Armies, Cattle Driven With Food: Articles of a Hymn Sung Afterward Food: Articles of Men and Women did not Partake Together Food: Articles of Parched (Roasted) Corn (Grain) Food: Articles of Prepared by Females Food: Articles of Thanks Given Before Receiving Food: Things Prohibited As Food Related Terms |
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